Public Affairs: Lobbying Target - Kerry McCarthy, junior whip

Elected to Parliament in 2005 as MP for Bristol East. McCarthy has
served on the Treasury select committee and as a PPS in the Department
for Health and the Department for International Development. She was
made a junior whip in the June 2009 reshuffle.

- What's her background?

McCarthy attended comprehensive school in Luton before going to
Liverpool University. A qualified solicitor, she began a legal career in
the late 1980s. More recently, she worked for the Britain in Europe
campaign.

- Where does she sit politically?

McCarthy supported Alan Johnson in Labour's deputy leadership contest
and is a big admirer of the Prime Minister. She told PRWeek: 'I have
real admiration for Gordon Brown.'

- Why is she one to watch?

A prolific blogger and Twitterer, McCarthy is well-known to Labour new
media enthusiasts. Her new role will involve co-ordinating Labour's
online presence and helping Labour MPs, PPCs and supporters share best
practice online.